Vented container lid assembly and method

ABSTRACT

A vented container lid assembly provides improved flow characteristics. The vented container lid assembly may include an assembly surface, container, flow component, flow flap, flow aperture, vent component, vent flap, vent aperture, tab component, opening facilitator and lid assembly and container connection components. A method to operate a vented container lid assembly providing improved flow characteristics using the vented container lid assembly is also provided.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the priority from U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 15/340,819 filed Nov. 1, 2016, which claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent App. Ser. No. 62/405,617 filed Oct. 7, 2016. This application additionally claims priority from U.S. Provisional Patent App. Ser. No. 62/432,006 filed Dec. 9, 2016. The foregoing applications are incorporated in their entirety herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to container lid assemblies. More particularly, the disclosure relates to a vented container lid assembly providing improved flow characteristics.

BACKGROUND ART

The present disclosure relates generally to liquid containers, for example beverage cans. These containers may be referred to as soda cans, pop cans, beer cans, cans, or otherwise as containers, even if the beverage contained in the can is noncarbonated.

Soda cans are typically manufactured and sold with a one-time-use lid. At the time of use, the user will pull up on a tab with his or her finger. By a mechanical advantage, as the tab is pulled up, the lower forward portion of the tab pushes a partially sheared, coined, or scored portion of the lid downward toward the deep drawn liquid-holding portion of the container. As the partially sheared portion of the lid is pushed into the container, this flap of material bends or yields, thus allowing the flap to be permanently displaced or bent inward into the container to provide a clear liquid flow outlet for the dispensation of liquid from the container.

While the tab remains attached to the lid by means of a rivet and the flap remains displaced in the liquid-holding portion of the container, the user typically bends the tab back to a position close to its initial horizontal state, such as prior to pulling up on the tab. In this state, the seal that previously retained the liquid has been thoroughly breached and the container considered to be “open” or “opened”.

Previous generations of containers used removable tabs that often ended up being tossed on the ground as trash. This was potentially dangerous for those walking around without shoes, small children as a choking/swallowing hazard, and animals. The current generation of containers uses tabs that are riveted to the lid and remain attached even after the container has been opened.

No known reference in the art provides for easily manipulated air ventilation to the container, other than the actual liquid flow hole, as the liquid is being dispensed from the container. In the prior art, as liquid is poured from the container, the volume of liquid exiting is replaced by an equal volume of air entering, causing a “bloop, bloop, bloop . . . ” sound as soda is poured from a container.

Without additional ventilation at a location on the lid that does not directly interfere with the liquid flow out of the container, the volumetric replacement of exiting liquid with entering air agitates the beverage, increases the head with carbonated beverages in the cup into which the beverage is being poured, may increase the likelihood of splatter, which can damage clothing, furniture, upholstery, electronics, and other objects. Additionally, lack of proper ventilation may prolong the time it takes to empty an entire container of liquid.

The vented lid assembly for containers described throughout this disclosure remedies this situation lacking in the art by providing the mechanical functionality to simultaneously create a liquid flow aperture and an air vent aperture while the tab is being pulled up during the opening of the container.

Therefore, a need exists to solve the deficiencies present in the prior art. What is needed is a lid assembly with improved flow characteristics. What is needed is a vented lid assembly to facilitate flow of a fluid from a container. What is needed is a lid assembly that includes a valve flap openable by manipulating a tab component. What is needed is a method of manipulating a lid assembly to substantially coordinate opening of a flow component and vent component.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION AND SUMMARY

An aspect of the disclosure advantageously provides a container lid assembly with improved flow characteristics. An aspect of the disclosure advantageously provides a vented lid assembly to facilitate flow of a fluid from a container. An aspect of the disclosure advantageously provides a lid assembly that includes a valve flap openable by manipulating a tab component. An aspect of the disclosure advantageously provides a method of manipulating a lid assembly to substantially coordinate opening of a flow component and vent component.

Accordingly, the disclosure may feature a container lid assembly that includes a vent anchor, a tab anchor, a vent component, and a tab component. The tab anchor may be located on an assembly surface. The vent component may include a vent flap. The tab component may include a tab body, a tab first attachment zone to which the tab component may be substantially attachable to the tab anchor, and a tab second attachment zone to which the tab component may be substantially attachable to the vent anchor. The tab component may be manipulable to at least partially reposition the vent flap to create a vent aperture.

In another aspect, the vent flap may include a vent flap first end located near tab anchor. The vent flap may also include a vent flap second end approximately opposite the vent flap first end. The vent anchor may be located on the vent flap. The vent flap may be movable away from the assembly surface upon force being applied at the vent anchor.

In another aspect, the vent anchor may be approximately centrally located on the vent flap.

In another aspect, the vent component may include a vent score along which the vent flap may be separable from the assembly surface. The tab anchor may be located on the assembly surface. The tab component may be operatively connectable to the tab anchor. The vent score may facilitate moving of the vent flap away from the assembly surface upon a force being applied at the vent anchor by manipulating the tab component about a tab margin near the tab anchor.

In another aspect, manipulation of the tab component about the tab margin may cause the vent flap to at least partially move in relation to the assembly surface via at least partial breaking of the vent score.

In another aspect, the vent flap may be outwardly movable from the assembly surface of the container lid assembly upon manipulation of the tab component to break a vent score and create the vent aperture.

In another aspect, a flow component may include a flow flap rotatable from the assembly surface of the container lid assembly about a flow margin upon manipulation of the tab component to break a flow score and create a flow aperture.

In another aspect, the tab body may include a tab body first end positioned to inwardly push the flow flap upon manipulation of the tab component. The tab body may also include a tab body second end approximately opposite the tab body first end positioned to outwardly lift the vent flap upon manipulation of the tab component. The flow flap may be inwardly rotatable about the flow margin and the vent flap is outwardly movable by manipulating the tab component.

In another aspect, during operation, fluid may flow outwardly through the flow aperture as air may flow inwardly through the vent aperture substantially simultaneously.

In another aspect, the tab component may include a tab body cavity.

In another aspect, a tab finger bridge may be located on the tab component. An assembly finger recession may be located on the assembly surface. The tab finger bridge and assembly finger recession may facilitate manipulation of the tab component.

According to an embodiment of the disclosure, a container lid assembly is provided including an assembly surface, vent component, flow component, vent anchor, and tab anchor. The vent component may include a vent flap and a vent score along which the vent flap may be separable from the assembly surface to create a vent aperture. The flow component may include a flow flap rotatable from the assembly surface about a flow margin to break a flow score and create a flow aperture. The vent anchor may be located on the vent flap. The tab anchor may be located on the assembly surface.

In another aspect, the vent flap may include a vent flap first end located near the tab anchor and a vent flap second end approximately opposite the vent flap first end. The vent flap may be movable away from the assembly surface upon force being applied at the vent anchor.

In another aspect, a tab component may be provided. The tab component may include a tab body, which may include a tab body first end and a tab body second end approximately opposite the tab body first end. The tab body may additionally include a tab first attachment zone to which the tab component may be substantially attachable to the tab anchor, and a tab second attachment zone to which the tab component may be substantially attachable to the vent anchor. The tab component may be manipulable to at least partially reposition the vent flap to create the vent aperture.

In another aspect, the tab component may be operatively connectable to the tab anchor. The vent score may facilitate moving of the vent flap away from the assembly surface upon force being applied at the vent anchor by manipulating the tab component about a tab margin near the tab anchor. Manipulation of the tab component about the tab margin may cause at least part of the vent flap to at least partially move in relation to the assembly surface via at least partial breaking of the vent score.

In another aspect, the vent flap may be movable away from the assembly surface upon manipulation of the tab component to break the vent score and create the vent aperture. The flow flap may be inwardly rotatable about the flow margin and the vent flap is outwardly movable away from the assembly surface by manipulating the tab component. The tab body first end may be positioned to inwardly push the flow flap upon manipulation of the tab component. The tab body second end may be positioned to outwardly lift the vent flap upon manipulation of the tab component.

According to an embodiment of this disclosure, a method is provided for improving flow characteristics via a container lid assembly including a vent anchor and a tab anchor. The method may include manipulating a tab component to affect an operatively connected vent component. The tab component may include a tab body, a tab first attachment zone to which the tab component is substantially attachable to the tab anchor, and a tab second attachment zone to which the tab component is substantially attachable to the vent anchor. The method may include applying a force to the vent anchor by the tab component. The method may additionally include moving a vent component connected to the vent anchor via the force, the vent component including a vent flap. Furthermore, the method may include creating a vent aperture by at least partially repositioning the vent flap.

In another aspect, the vent flap further may include a vent flap first end located near the tab anchor and a vent flap second end approximately opposite the vent flap first end. The vent anchor may be located on the vent flap. Moving the vent component may additionally include at least partially moving the vent flap away an assembly surface upon the force being applied at the vent anchor.

In another aspect, the vent anchor may be located on the vent flap near the vent flap second end. The vent component may further include a vent score along which the vent flap may be separable from the assembly surface. The tab anchor may be located on the assembly surface. The tab component may be operatively connectable to the tab anchor. The vent score may facilitate moving of the vent flap away from the assembly surface upon the force being applied at the vent anchor by manipulating the tab component about a tab margin near the tab anchor. Manipulation of the tab component about the tab margin may cause the vent flap to at least partially move in relation to the assembly surface via at least partial breaking of the vent score.

In another aspect, the method may include pushing a flow flap inward via a tab body first end of the tab body upon manipulation of the tab component to create a flow aperture. The method may additionally include pulling the vent flap outwardly via a tab body second end of the tab body upon manipulation of the tab component to create the vent aperture.

Terms and expressions used throughout this disclosure are to be interpreted broadly. Terms are intended to be understood respective to the definitions provided by this specification. Technical dictionaries and common meanings understood within the applicable art are intended to supplement these definitions. In instances where no suitable definition can be determined from the specification or technical dictionaries, such terms should be understood according to their plain and common meaning. However, any definitions provided by the specification will govern above all other sources.

Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages described by this disclosure will become more apparent from the following detailed description, along with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in an at least partially opened configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in a substantially closed configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in an at least partially opened configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 4 is a rear elevation view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in an at least partially opened configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in an at least partially opened configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 6 is a sectional side elevation view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in an at least partially opened configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in an at least partially opened configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a bottom plan view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in an at least partially opened configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in a substantially closed configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 10 is a sectional side elevation view of an illustrative vented lid assembly in a substantially closed configuration, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of an illustrative container with a vented lid assembly installed, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an illustrative tab component, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an illustrative vented lid assembly with the tab component removed, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart view of an illustrative operation of a vented lid assembly, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart view of an illustrative operation of evacuating fluid from a container with the vented lid assembly, according to an embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view if an illustrative vented lid assembly in an opened configuration, according to an alternative embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view if an illustrative vented lid assembly in an opened configuration, according to an alternative embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of an illustrative vented lid assembly with the tab component removed, according to an alternative embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an illustrative container with a vented lid assembly installed, according to an alternative embodiment of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following disclosure is provided to describe various embodiments of a vented container lid assembly. Skilled artisans will appreciate additional embodiments and uses of the present invention that extend beyond the examples of this disclosure. Terms included by any claim are to be interpreted as defined within this disclosure. Singular forms should be read to contemplate and disclose plural alternatives. Similarly, plural forms should be read to contemplate and disclose singular alternatives. Conjunctions should be read as inclusive except where stated otherwise.

Expressions such as “at least one of A, B, and C” should be read to permit any of A, B, or C singularly or in combination with the remaining elements. Additionally, such groups may include multiple instances of one or more element in that group, which may be included with other elements of the group. All numbers, measurements, and values are given as approximations unless expressly stated otherwise.

Various aspects of the present disclosure will now be described in detail, without limitation. In the following disclosure, a vented container lid assembly will be discussed. Those of skill in the art will appreciate alternative labeling of the vented container lid assembly as a can lid assembly, lid assembly, can lid, soda can lid assembly, beer can lid assembly, the invention, or other similar names. Similarly, those of skill in the art will appreciate alternative labeling of a method for using the vented container lid assembly as a method pouring a fluid through a ventilated can lid assembly, method of vented pouring from a can, method, operation, the invention, or other similar names. Skilled readers should not view the inclusion of any alternative labels as limiting in any way.

BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Referring now to FIGS. 1-19, the vented container lid assembly will now be discussed in more detail. The vented container lid assembly may include an assembly surface, container, flow component, flow flap, flow aperture, vent component, vent flap, vent aperture, tab component, opening facilitator, lid assembly and container connection components, and/or additional components that will be discussed in greater detail below. The vented container lid assembly may operate one or more of these components interactively with other components of a vented container lid assembly providing improved flow characteristics. For example, the vented container lid assembly may permit opening of the vent flap and flow flap substantially simultaneously through manipulation of the tab component.

The can lid assembly may be made using various components, for example, metals or plastics. In one example, the container lid assembly may be manufactured using aluminum, tin, steel, or other metals. Skilled artisans will appreciate that any choice of materials described in this disclosure are used for illustrative purposes and without the intend to limit this disclosure in any way.

While containers such as metal cans are used for many purposes, one of the more widely used functions may be for liquid packaging, more specifically, liquid packaging of carbonated and non-carbonated beverages. Throughout this disclosure, terms such as lid, assembly, lid assembly, container lid assembly, can lid assembly, and other similar terms may be used interchangeably to describe the portion of the container assembly that resides on the top portion of the container. The container lid assembly may substantially seal the liquid in the container and may provide for dispensing the liquid from the container.

Similarly, terms describing the container onto which the lid assembly may be installed, including the term can, may be used interchangeably throughout this disclosure without limitation. Soda containers, beer containers, beverage containers, or liquid-filled vessels may be referred to as container, can, or other similar terms without limitation. References to lids and cans throughout this disclosure are general statements and are exemplary or illustrative of typical use for explaining various designs throughout the disclosure. In some cases, container may be used to refer to the entirety of container and lid assembly and this will be discernable based upon the context. Every effort will be made to be clear and concise throughout the specification for this patent application.

Furthermore, the vented container lid assembly may be interchangeably referred to as “device” or “apparatus” throughout this disclosure. It is not the intent of this application to make any additional claims about the liquid-holding portion of the can, including the deep drawn portion of the container onto which the lid assembly may be installed. However, it is the intent of this disclosure to focus on the device and operation by which liquid held and dispensed from a container may be affected by introducing a novel and unique lid design with a vented lid assembly, such as provided by this disclosure.

The assembly surface 160 will now be discussed in greater detail. Examples of the assembly surface are highlighted in FIGS. 7-9 and 13, and shown in other figures. The assembly surface 160 may be a surface of the lid assembly on which other aspects are located. The assembly surface may include a large flattened area that substantially seals a liquid or other fluid within a container. The assembly surface may occupy the space of the lid assembly 100 not occupied by other components described throughout this disclosure.

The assembly surface 160 may include an assembly recession 166, which may at least partially include the flow component 102. The flow component 102 will be discussed in greater detail below. The assembly flow recession 166 may advantageously provide rigidity for the assembly surface 160, providing improved handling and structural characteristics for the lid assembly 100.

The assembly surface 160 may be at least partially connected to an assembly rim 162. The assembly rim 162 may advantageously provide an installation interface between the lid assembly 100 and a container 170 onto which the lid assembly may be attached. The lid assembly may be installed to the container such to prevent leakage of liquid from an unopened container, for example, via compression of the assembly rim 162 about a corresponding rim of the container.

The flow component 102 will now be discussed in greater detail. The flow component 102 may include various components and is not intended to be read to be specifically singular or plural. This is also true for the additional component of this disclosure. Examples of the flow are highlighted in FIGS. 1-5, 7-11, and 13, and shown in other figures.

The flow component 102 may include flow flap 110, flow margin 116, flow aperture 120, and flow score 126. The flow flap 110 may include a flow flap first end 112 and a distal flow flap second end 114. The flow flap first end 112 may be located near the center of the lid assembly 100. The flow flap second end 114 may be located closer to the assembly rim 162 of the lid assembly 100, opposite to the flow flap first end 112. The flow flap 110 may be at least partially included in the assembly flow recession 166.

The flow component 102 may include a flow score 126 about a substantial portion of the perimeter of the flow flap 110. The flow score 126 may provide an at least partially circumferential line of weakness at which the flow flap 110 is separable from the remainder of the lid assembly 100.

At least a portion of the flow flap 110 may lack scoring, advantageously allowing the flow flap 110 to remain substantially connected to the assembly surface 160 via a flow margin 116. The flow flap 110 may pivot about the flow margin 116 upon the flow score 126 being broken. For example, as a beverage can is opened, force applied to the flow flap 110 may cause the flow score 126 to break and the flow flap 110 to be pivoted inwardly into the container about the flow margin 116.

In the closed configuration, the flow flap 110 may substantially cover the flow aperture 120. In the opened configuration, the flow score 126 may be broken and the flow flap 110 may be pivoted from the substantially sealed, close position, creating the flow aperture 120. Once opened, fluid may flow through the flow aperture 120.

The flow aperture 120 may include a flow aperture first end 122 and a flow aperture second end 124. The flow aperture first end 122 may correspond with the flow flap first end 112. For example, upon breaking of the flow score 126, the flow flap first end 112 may be repositioned to create the flow aperture first end 122. The repositioning may occur as the flow flap 110 pivots about the flow margin 116 located near the flow flap first end 112 and the flow aperture first end 122.

Additionally, the flow aperture second end 124 may correspond with the flow flap second end 114. For example, upon breaking of the flow score 126, the flow flap second end 114 may be repositioned to create the flow aperture second end 124. As the flow flap 110 pivots about the flow margin 116, the flow flap second end 114 may be separated from the flow aperture second end 124 at a rate higher than the flow flap first end 112 is separated from the flow aperture first end 122.

The vent component 103 will now be discussed in greater detail. The vent component 103 may include various components and is not intended to be read to be specifically singular or plural. Examples of the vent are highlighted in FIGS. 1, 3-6, 8, 10-11, and 13, and shown in other figures.

The vent component 103 may include vent flap 130, vent margin 136, vent aperture 140, and vent score 146. The vent flap 130 may include a vent flap first end 132 and a distal vent flap second end 134. The vent flap first end 132 may be located near the center of the lid assembly 100. The vent flap second end 134 may be located closer to the assembly rim 162 of the lid assembly 100, opposite to the vent flap first end 132. The vent flap 130 may be at least partially included on the assembly surface 160.

The vent component 103 may include a vent score 146 about a substantial portion of the perimeter of the vent flap 130. The vent score 146 may provide an at least partially circumferential line of weakness at which the vent flap 130 is separable from the remainder of the lid assembly 100.

At least a portion of the vent flap 130 may lack scoring, advantageously allowing the vent flap 130 to remain substantially connected to the assembly surface 160 via a vent margin 136. The vent flap 130 may pivot about the vent margin 136 upon the vent score 146 being broken. For example, as will be discussed in greater detail below, as a beverage can is opened, force applied to the vent flap 130 may cause the vent score 146 to break and the vent flap 130 to be pivoted outwardly from the container about the vent margin 136.

In the closed configuration, the vent flap 130 may substantially cover the vent aperture 140. In the opened configuration, the vent score 146 may be broken and the vent flap 130 may be pivoted from the substantially sealed, close position, creating the vent aperture 140. Once opened, air or another fluid may vent through the vent aperture 140.

The vent aperture 140 may include a vent aperture first end 142 and a vent aperture second end 144. The vent aperture first end 142 may correspond with the vent flap first end 132. For example, upon breaking of the vent score 146, the vent flap first end 132 may be repositioned to create the vent aperture first end 142. The repositioning may occur as the vent flap 130 pivots about the vent margin 136 located near the vent flap first end 132 and the vent aperture first end 142.

Additionally, the vent aperture second end 144 may correspond with the vent flap second end 134. For example, upon breaking of the vent score 146, the vent flap second end 134 may be repositioned to create the vent aperture second end 144. As the vent flap 130 pivots about the vent margin 136, the vent flap second end 134 may be separated by the vent aperture second end 144 at a rate higher than the vent flap first end 132 is separated from the vent aperture first end 142.

The anchors will now be discussed in greater detail. Examples of anchors are highlighted in FIGS. 2-10 and 13, and shown in other figures. The anchors provide an attachment interface between various components of the lid assembly 100. In one illustrative example, the anchors may include a vent anchor 138 and tab anchor 158.

The anchors may be constructed using a sturdy material, such as the materials used to create the lid assembly 100. In one example, the anchors may be provided as part of the material used to create the lid assembly 100, for example, via metal stamping or metalworking. The stamping may be performed, for example, using a machine press to create recessions, extensions, and other features from a piece of metal or other material. In another example, the anchors may be provided by attachment of an object onto the assembly, for example, via welding or adhesion. In yet another example, the anchor may be provided via riveting. Skilled artisans will appreciate additional examples after having the benefit of this disclosure.

In the interest of illustrating an embodiment of anchors includable by the lid assembly 100, an embodiment of the lid assembly 100 may include a tab anchor 158 and a vent anchor 138. The anchors, including the tab anchor 158 and the vent anchor 138, may extend outwardly from the assembly surface 160. The tab anchor 158 and the vent anchor 138 may be received and operatively attached to a corresponding attachment zone. For example, the tab anchor 158 may be received and operatively attached to a tab first attachment zone 151 and the vent anchor 138 may be received and operatively attached to a tab second attachment zone 153.

In one embodiment, an anchor may be substantially permanently installable to a corresponding attachment zone. For example, an anchor may be riveted, welded, adhered, or fixed in another manner to the corresponding attachment zone. In another embodiment, the anchor may be at least partially removably installable to a corresponding attachment zone. For example, an anchor may be held by a corresponding attachment zone via friction, compression, non-permanent adhesion, or be non-permanently attached in another manner.

The tab anchor 158 may be located approximately near the center of the lid assembly 100. The tab anchor 158 may be positioned to receive the tab component 105 via the tab first attachment zone 151. The tab component 105 may at least partially pivot about a tab margin 156 located near the interface between the tab anchor 158 and the tab first attachment zone 151.

The vent anchor 138 may be located near the tab anchor 158. In one embodiment, the vent anchor 138 may be located on the vent flap 130, for example, near the vent flap second end 134 of the vent flap 130. The vent anchor 138 may be positioned to receive the tab component 105 via the tab second attachment zone 153. The tab component 105 may apply a force on the vent anchor 138 as the tab component 105 pivots about a tab margin 156 located near the interface between the tab anchor 158 and the tab first attachment zone 151. The force created by pivoting the tab component 105 may pull the vent anchor 138 and cause the vent flap 130 to separate from the assembly surface 160 via breaking of the vent score 146.

In an additional embodiment, the lid assembly may include multiple vent anchors. For example, a first vent anchor may be located near the tab anchor. An additional vent anchor may be located at a greater distance respective to the tab anchor. Multiple additional vent anchors may be included to facilitate manipulation of the vent component. In one arrangement, multiple vent anchors may be provided across an approximately horizontal row on the vent flap. In another arrangement, multiple vent anchors may be included in a nonlinear pattern. One or more of the multiple vent anchors may be located on the vent flap. The vent anchors may be positioned to receive the tab component via the respective tab attachment zones. The tab component may apply a force on the vent anchors as the tab component pivots about a tab margin located near the interface between the tab anchor and the tab first attachment zone. The force created by pivoting the tab component may pull the vent anchors and cause the vent flap to separate from the assembly surface via breaking of the vent score.

The tab component will now be discussed in greater detail. Examples of the tab component and its features are highlighted in FIGS. 1-7 and 9-12, and shown in other figures. The tab component 105 may be formed from a piece of material, for example, a metal. In one embodiment, the tab component 105 may be created using substantially the same material as used to create the other portions of the lid assembly 100. In some embodiments, the tab component 105 is included by the lid assembly 100. In alternative embodiments, the lid assembly 100 is provided without the tab component 105, but providing the interface by which a tab component 105 may be installed.

The tab component 105 may be an elongated piece of material of configurable width forming a tab body 150. The tab body 150 may extend from a tab first end 152 to a tab second end 154. The tab component 105 may feature additional aspects, for example, a tab margin 156, tab first attachment zone 151, tab second attachment zone 153, tab first cavity 155, tab second cavity 157, and/or tab finger bridge 165.

Near the tab first end 152, the tab component 105 may include a tab margin 156, tab first attachment zone 151, and optionally a tab first cavity 155. The tab first attachment zone 151 may provide an attachment interface between the tab component 105 and the tab anchor 158 of the remaining lid assembly 100. When the tab component 105 is installed to the tab anchor 158 of the lid assembly 100, the tab component 105 may be at least partially pivoted about the tab margin 156.

In one embodiment, a tab first cavity 155 may provide an absence of material in the tab component 105 to facilitate movement of the tab component 105 about the tab margin 156. The tab first cavity 155 may additionally reduce the material requirements for constructing the tab component 105, which may advantageously lower production cost.

In one embodiment, a tab second cavity 157 may provide an absence of material in the tab component 105 to facilitate gripping the tab component 105 by a user and manipulation of the tab component 105. This can be further facilitated by inclusion of an optional tab finger bridge 165, which will be discussed in greater detail below. The tab second cavity 157 may additionally reduce the material requirements for constructing the tab component 105, which may advantageously lower production cost.

The opening facilitator will now be discussed in greater detail. Examples of features that may be included by the opening facilitator are highlighted in FIGS. 2, 7-13. In one embodiment, the opening facilitator may include tab finger bridge 165 and an assembly finger recession 167. The tab finger bridge 165 may be located on the tab component 105, for example, at the tab second end 154 of the tab component 105. The assembly finger recession 167 may be located on the assembly surface 160 of the lid assembly 100. For example, the assembly finger recession 167 may be located approximately below the tab finger bridge 165 while the assembly lid 10 is in an unopened state. The opening facilitator and its components may advantageously improve ease of getting a finger or other object between the tab component 105 and assembly surface 160 to manipulate the tab component 105.

The lid assembly and container connection components will now be discussed in greater detail. The lid assembly 100 may be installed on a corresponding container 170 via the assembly rim 162, for example, at location 106. In one embodiment, at least part of the assembly rim 162 may be fitted over a flange extending outwardly from the container 170. The assembly rim 162 may be compressed to form a substantially sealed interface between the lid assembly 100 and the container 170. A sealant material may additional be included to improve the seal properties of the installation. Skilled artisans will appreciate additional details and techniques for attaching a lid to a container.

An alternative embodiment of the vent component will now be discussed in greater detail. The vent component may include various components and is not intended to be read to be specifically singular or plural. Examples of the vent in this embodiment are highlighted in FIGS. 16-19, and may be shown in other figures.

The vent component 203 may include vent flap 230, vent aperture 240, and vent score 246. The vent margin may be omitted in this embodiment. The vent flap 230 may be at least partially included on the assembly surface 260.

The vent component 203 may include a vent score 246 about a substantial portion of the perimeter of the vent flap 230. The vent score 246 may provide an at least partially circumferential line of weakness at which the vent flap 230 is separable from the remainder of the lid assembly 200. For example, as will be discussed in greater detail below, as a beverage can is opened, force applied to the vent flap 230 may cause the vent score 246 to break and the vent flap 230 to be separated and moved away from the container.

In the closed configuration, the vent flap 230 may substantially cover the vent aperture 240. In the opened configuration, the vent score 246 may be broken and the vent flap 230 may be moved away from the substantially sealed, close position, creating the vent aperture 240. Once opened, air or another fluid may vent through the vent aperture 240.

The anchors will now be discussed in greater detail, in the context of this alternative embodiment. The anchors provide an attachment interface between various components of the lid assembly 200. In one illustrative example, the anchors may include a vent anchor 238 and tab anchor 258.

The tab anchor 258 and the vent anchor 238 may be received and operatively attached to a corresponding attachment zone. For example, the tab anchor 258 may be received and operatively attached to a tab first attachment zone 251 and the vent anchor 238 may be received and operatively attached to a tab second attachment zone 253.

The vent anchor 238 may be located near the tab anchor 258. In one embodiment, the vent anchor 238 may be located on the vent flap 230. The vent anchor 238 may be positioned to receive the tab component 205 via the tab second attachment zone 253. The tab component 205 may apply a force on the vent anchor 238 as the tab component 205 pivots about a tab margin 256 located near the interface between the tab anchor 258 and the tab first attachment zone 251. The force created by pivoting the tab component 205 may pull the vent anchor 238 and cause the vent flap 230 to separate from the assembly surface 260 via breaking of the vent score 246. In this alternative embodiment, the vent flap 230 may be separated entirely from the assembly surface 260 upon manipulating the tab component 205.

As discussed previously in this disclosure, this additional embodiment may optionally include multiple vent anchors. For example, a first vent anchor may be located near the tab anchor. An additional vent anchor may be located at a greater distance respective to the tab anchor. Multiple additional vent anchors may be included to facilitate manipulation of the vent component. In one arrangement, multiple vent anchors may be provided across an approximately horizontal row on the vent flap. In another arrangement, multiple vent anchors may be included in a nonlinear pattern. One or more of the multiple vent anchors may be located on the vent flap. The vent anchors may be positioned to receive the tab component via the respective tab attachment zones. The tab component may apply a force on the vent anchors as the tab component pivots about a tab margin located near the interface between the tab anchor and the tab first attachment zone. The force created by pivoting the tab component may pull the vent anchors and cause the vent flap to separate from the assembly surface via breaking of the vent score.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

In operation, a method may be provided to use a vented container lid assembly providing improved flow characteristics. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the following methods are provided to illustrate an embodiment of the disclosure, and should not be viewed as limiting the disclosure to only those methods or aspects. Skilled artisans will appreciate additional methods within the scope and spirit of the disclosure for performing the operations provided by the examples below after having the benefit of this disclosure. Such additional methods are intended to be included by this disclosure.

Referring now to flowchart 1400 of FIG. 14, an illustrative method for an operation of a vented lid assembly will be described, without limitation. Starting with block 1402, the operation may begin by an operator gripping the tab component of the lid assembly. (Block 1404). The operator may grip the tab component at the tab body second end. Optionally, opening facilitators such as a tab finger bridge and an assembly finger recession may be provided to make the operation of block 1404 easier. The operator may lift on the tab component, for example, by raising the tab body second end of the tab component. (Block 1406). The tab component may then pivot about the tab margin. (Block 1408).

As the tab component pivots about the tab margin, the tab body first end of the tab component may push on the flow flap. (Block 1410). The pressure of the tab component pushing on the flow flap may break the flow score, allowing the flow flap to pivot inwardly. (Block 1412). As the flow score breaks, the flow aperture may be created. (Block 1414).

Additionally, as the tab component pivots about the tab margin, the tab body second end of the tab component may pull on the vent flap. (Block 1420). This pulling force may be provided by the interface between the vent anchor and the tab second attachment zone. The pressure of the tab component pulling on the vent flap may break the vent score, allowing the vent flap to pivot outwardly. (Block 1422). In embodiments without a vent margin, the pivoting of the vent flap may be omitted. As the vent score breaks, the vent aperture may be created. (Block 1424).

In one embodiment, the operations of Blocks 1410-1414 and Blocks 1420-1424 may be performed substantially simultaneously. For example, the lid assembly may permit opening of the vent flap and flow flap substantially simultaneously through manipulation of the tab component. After the operations of Block 1414 and 1424, the container may be considered opened. (Block 1430). The operation may then terminate at Block 1440.

Referring now to flowchart 1500 of FIG. 15, an illustrative method for an operation of evacuating fluid from a container with the vented lid assembly will be described, without limitation. Starting with block 1502, the operation may begin by tilting the opened container. (Block 1504). As the container is tilted, fluid may begin to flow from the flow aperture. (Block 1506). The outward flow of fluid from the container may cause pressure inside the container to decrease as the fluid is removed. (Block 1508).

As the fluid flows out of the container through the flow aperture, air may be drawn in through the vent aperture. (Block 1510). This air may help equalize pressure inside of the container. (Block 1512). With pressure substantially equalized, fluid may continue to flow from the container at a substantially uninhibited rate. (Block 1514). The operation may then terminate at Block 1520.

An alternative embodiment of the vent component will now be discussed in greater detail. The vent component may include various components and is not intended to be read to be specifically singular or plural. Examples of the vent in this embodiment are highlighted in FIGS. 16-19, and may be shown in other figures.

The vent component 203 may include vent flap 230, vent aperture 240, and vent score 246. The vent margin may be omitted in this embodiment. The vent flap 230 may be at least partially included on the assembly surface 260.

The vent component 203 may include a vent score 246 about a substantial portion of the perimeter of the vent flap 230. The vent score 246 may provide an at least partially circumferential line of weakness at which the vent flap 230 is separable from the remainder of the lid assembly 200. For example, as will be discussed in greater detail below, as a beverage can is opened, force applied to the vent flap 230 may cause the vent score 246 to break and the vent flap 230 to be separated and moved away from the container.

In the closed configuration, the vent flap 230 may substantially cover the vent aperture 240. In the opened configuration, the vent score 246 may be broken and the vent flap 230 may be moved away from the substantially sealed, close position, creating the vent aperture 240. Once opened, air or another fluid may vent through the vent aperture 240.

The anchors will now be discussed in greater detail, in the context of this alternative embodiment. The anchors provide an attachment interface between various components of the lid assembly 200. In one illustrative example, the anchors may include a vent anchor 238 and tab anchor 258.

The tab anchor 258 and the vent anchor 238 may be received and operatively attached to a corresponding attachment zone. For example, the tab anchor 258 may be received and operatively attached to a tab first attachment zone 251 and the vent anchor 238 may be received and operatively attached to a tab second attachment zone 253.

The vent anchor 238 may be located near the tab anchor 258. In one embodiment, the vent anchor 238 may be located on the vent flap 230. The vent anchor 238 may be positioned to receive the tab component 205 via the tab second attachment zone 253. The tab component 205 may apply a force on the vent anchor 238 as the tab component 205 pivots about a tab margin 256 located near the interface between the tab anchor 258 and the tab first attachment zone 251. The force created by pivoting the tab component 205 may pull the vent anchor 238 and cause the vent flap 230 to separate from the assembly surface 260 via breaking of the vent score 246. In this alternative embodiment, the vent flap 230 may be separated entirely from the assembly surface 260 upon manipulating the tab component 205.

As discussed previously in this disclosure, this additional embodiment may optionally include multiple vent anchors. For example, a first vent anchor may be located near the tab anchor. An additional vent anchor may be located at a greater distance respective to the tab anchor. Multiple additional vent anchors may be included to facilitate manipulation of the vent component. In one arrangement, multiple vent anchors may be provided across an approximately horizontal row on the vent flap. In another arrangement, multiple vent anchors may be included in a nonlinear pattern. One or more of the multiple vent anchors may be located on the vent flap. The vent anchors may be positioned to receive the tab component via the respective tab attachment zones. The tab component may apply a force on the vent anchors as the tab component pivots about a tab margin located near the interface between the tab anchor and the tab first attachment zone. The force created by pivoting the tab component may pull the vent anchors and cause the vent flap to separate from the assembly surface via breaking of the vent score.

While various aspects have been described in the above disclosure, the description of this disclosure is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the invention. The invention is defined by the scope of the appended claims and not the illustrations and examples provided in the above disclosure. Skilled artisans will appreciate additional aspects of the invention, which may be realized in alternative embodiments, after having the benefit of the above disclosure. Other aspects, advantages, embodiments, and modifications are within the scope of the following claims. 

What is claimed is: What is claimed is:
 1. A container lid assembly comprising: a vent anchor; a tab anchor located on an assembly surface; a vent component comprising: a vent flap; a tab component comprising: a tab body, a tab first attachment zone to which the tab component is substantially attachable to the tab anchor, and a tab second attachment zone to which the tab component is substantially attachable to the vent anchor; and wherein the tab component is manipulable to at least partially reposition the vent flap to create a vent aperture.
 2. The container lid assembly of claim 1, the vent flap further comprising: a vent flap first end located near tab anchor; a vent flap second end approximately opposite the vent flap first end; wherein the vent anchor is located on the vent flap; and wherein the vent flap is movable away from the assembly surface upon force being applied at the vent anchor.
 3. The container lid assembly of claim 1, wherein the vent anchor is approximately centrally located on the vent flap.
 4. The container lid assembly of claim 1, the vent component further comprising: a vent score along which the vent flap is separable from the assembly surface; wherein the tab anchor is located on the assembly surface; wherein the tab component is operatively connectable to the tab anchor; and wherein the vent score facilitates moving of the vent flap away from the assembly surface upon a force being applied at the vent anchor by manipulating the tab component about a tab margin near the tab anchor.
 5. The container lid assembly of claim 4, wherein manipulation of the tab component about the tab margin causes the vent flap to at least partially move in relation to the assembly surface via at least partial breaking of the vent score.
 6. The container lid assembly of claim 1, wherein the vent flap is outwardly movable from the assembly surface of the container lid assembly upon manipulation of the tab component to break a vent score and create the vent aperture.
 7. The container lid assembly of claim 1, further comprising a flow component comprising: a flow flap rotatable from the assembly surface of the container lid assembly about a flow margin upon manipulation of the tab component to break a flow score and create a flow aperture.
 8. The container lid assembly of claim 7, wherein the tab body comprises: a tab body first end positioned to inwardly push the flow flap upon manipulation of the tab component, and a tab body second end approximately opposite the tab body first end positioned to outwardly lift the vent flap upon manipulation of the tab component; and wherein the flow flap is inwardly rotatable about the flow margin and the vent flap is outwardly movable by manipulating the tab component.
 9. The container lid assembly of claim 8, wherein during operation fluid flows outwardly through the flow aperture as air flows inwardly through the vent aperture substantially simultaneously.
 10. The container lid assembly of claim 1, the tab component further comprising a tab body cavity.
 11. The container lid assembly of claim 1, further comprising: a tab finger bridge located on the tab component; and an assembly finger recession located on the assembly surface; and wherein the tab finger bridge and assembly finger recession facilitate manipulation of the tab component.
 12. A container lid assembly comprising: an assembly surface; a vent component comprising: a vent flap, and a vent score along which the vent flap is separable from the assembly surface to create a vent aperture; a flow component comprising: a flow flap rotatable from the assembly surface about a flow margin to break a flow score and create a flow aperture; a vent anchor located on the vent flap; and a tab anchor located on the assembly surface.
 13. The container lid assembly of claim 12, the vent flap further comprising: a vent flap first end located near the tab anchor; a vent flap second end approximately opposite the vent flap first end; and wherein the vent flap is movable away from the assembly surface upon force being applied at the vent anchor.
 14. The container lid assembly of claim 12, further comprising a tab component comprising: a tab body comprising: a tab body first end, and a tab body second end approximately opposite the tab body first end, a tab first attachment zone to which the tab component is substantially attachable to the tab anchor, and a tab second attachment zone to which the tab component is substantially attachable to the vent anchor; and wherein the tab component is manipulable to at least partially reposition the vent flap to create the vent aperture.
 15. The container lid assembly of claim 14: wherein the tab component is operatively connectable to the tab anchor; wherein the vent score facilitates moving of the vent flap away from the assembly surface upon force being applied at the vent anchor by manipulating the tab component about a tab margin near the tab anchor; and wherein manipulation of the tab component about the tab margin causes at least part of the vent flap to at least partially move in relation to the assembly surface via at least partial breaking of the vent score.
 16. The container lid assembly of claim 14, wherein the vent flap is movable away from the assembly surface upon manipulation of the tab component to break the vent score and create the vent aperture; wherein the flow flap is inwardly rotatable about the flow margin and the vent flap is outwardly movable away from the assembly surface by manipulating the tab component; wherein the tab body first end is positioned to inwardly push the flow flap upon manipulation of the tab component; and wherein the tab body second end is positioned to outwardly lift the vent flap upon manipulation of the tab component.
 17. A method of improving flow characteristics via a container lid assembly comprising a vent anchor and a tab anchor, the method comprising: (a) manipulating a tab component to affect an operatively connected vent component, the tab component comprising: a tab body, a tab first attachment zone to which the tab component is substantially attachable to the tab anchor, and a tab second attachment zone to which the tab component is substantially attachable to the vent anchor; (b) applying a force to the vent anchor by the tab component; (c) moving a vent component connected to the vent anchor via the force, the vent component comprising a vent flap; and (d) creating a vent aperture by at least partially repositioning the vent flap.
 18. The method of claim 17: wherein the vent flap further comprises: a vent flap first end located near the tab anchor, and a vent flap second end approximately opposite the vent flap first end; wherein the vent anchor is located on the vent flap; and wherein step (c) further comprises at least partially moving the vent flap away an assembly surface upon the force being applied at the vent anchor.
 19. The method of claim 18: wherein the vent anchor is located on the vent flap near the vent flap second end; wherein the vent component further comprises a vent score along which the vent flap is separable from the assembly surface; wherein the tab anchor is located on the assembly surface; wherein the tab component is operatively connectable to the tab anchor; and wherein the vent score facilitates moving of the vent flap away from the assembly surface upon the force being applied at the vent anchor by manipulating the tab component about a tab margin near the tab anchor; and wherein manipulation of the tab component about the tab margin causes the vent flap to at least partially move in relation to the assembly surface via at least partial breaking of the vent score.
 20. The method of claim 17, further comprising: (e) pushing a flow flap inward via a tab body first end of the tab body upon manipulation of the tab component to create a flow aperture; and (f) pulling the vent flap outwardly via a tab body second end of the tab body upon manipulation of the tab component to create the vent aperture. 